United States: Mark Bellissimo, Managing Partner and largest shareholder of Wellington Equestrian Partners (WEP), unveiled an $80 million dollar expansion plan for Palm Beach International Equestrian Center (PBIEC) and surrounding areas. WEP has invested over $225 million building the 140 acre PBIEC facility and securing 370 acres surrounding the facility. WEP was founded by Bellissimo, Roger Smith, and Dennis Dammerman in 2006 and is dedicated to creating excellence in horse sports. The Partnership includes some of America’s most prominent equestrian families, all of whom are committed to providing a home for the equestrian community and assuring harmony between equestrian and non-equestrian interests in Wellington.

WEP, through its operating subsidiary, Equestrian Sport Productions, LLC (ESP) owns and operates 42 weeks of United States Equestrian Federation shows in Wellington. According to industry analyses, the equestrian industry estimates a $700 million economic impact on Palm Beach County.

The Vision

The Wellington Equestrian Partners’ goal is to make Wellington the premier equestrian lifestyle destination in the world. To support vision and expansion plans, Bellissimo outlined key elements of the WEP strategy:

Create a world-class facility that supports entry-level riders to Olympic athletes.

Provide and support programs to increase access to the sport and the facility.

Connect to the community through entertainment, job education, and philanthropy.

Lead the transition to a true commercial sport through increased sponsorship and media exposure.

Enhance the lifestyle for all participants, including spectators, riders, residents, trainers, and horse owners.